US10219797B2 - Wound closure apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

A wound closure apparatus can be a self-contained device for delivery and deployment of a tissue engineered wound plug that can secure fascial closure of laparoscopic port-site wounds. The wound plug can include a subfascial rivet head, a suprafascial rivet head, and a compressible column. Once in the wound, the wound plug may be deployed with the subfascial rivet head below the fascia of the wound and the suprafascial rivet head above the fascia of the wound. As this occurs, the column of the wound plug can be stationed within the opening of the wound. Once the wound plug is secured above, below, and within the fascial defect, the rivet heads may be interlocked within an inner channel of the column and remaining elements of the apparatus may be removed and discarded.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/634,421 filed Feb. 27, 2015 and published on Sep. 1, 2016 as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016-0249896, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to a wound closure apparatus and method.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS), also referred to as laparoscopic or endoscopic surgery, has experienced spectacular growth worldwide over the past few decades for the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of acute and chronic pathologies. Endoscopic procedures are economical, safer, and promote a more rapid recovery in contrast to conventional surgical approaches. Technological advancements in MIS are expected to have robust growth in the future. As endoscopic technologies develop and become the standard of care for most types of surgical interventions, the continued development of innovative quality tools to address the unique problems associated with this type of surgery must be vigorously pursued.

A laparoscopic surgery is performed by inserting a cannula (a hollow plastic or metal tube) through the abdominal wall, either by scalpel dissection or by blunt penetration with a piercing instrument (a trocar) occupying the central lumen of the cannula. When the cannula is placed through the skin and into the abdomen, the surgical blade or central trocar is withdrawn, leaving a cannula that is designed to inflate the abdominal cavity with carbon dioxide gas in order to distend the anterior abdominal wall away from the internal organs. The presence of this gas in the abdominal cavity is known as a pneumoperitoneum.

Once the pneumoperitoneum is established, a fiber optic endoscope (which may either be attached to a high-definition video camera or guided by direct vision) is inserted safely into the abdomen allowing visualization of the abdominal viscera. When complete visualization of the abdomen is accomplished, a number of secondary cannulae are placed via the previously described technique. The surgery is then performed through these cannulated passageways, referred to as ports. The ports function as conduits for the insertion and exchange of various specialized hand-held or robotic-assisted instruments and devices to accomplish the laparoscopic procedure, which would otherwise be performed by an open surgical incision.

The observed benefits of MIS include reduced blood loss, lower risk of infection, more rapid recovery rates, and reduced postoperative pain. These benefits have caused laparoscopy to become the preferred method for an ever-increasing number of surgical procedures. As with any other surgery, however, MIS is not without its share of complications. Two common complications relevant to MIS surgeries are the formation of abdominal adhesions and/or hernia development.

While laparoscopic adhesion formation occurs less frequently than those related to open surgeries, the risk remains omnipresent as a result of the cumulative effect of the fibrin-forming inflammatory process. Factors that predispose the development of adhesions include: ischemia (poor blood supply), obesity, malnutrition, diabetes, or the devascularization of the peritoneum caused by the surgery itself. The development of adhesions generally occurs between the fifth and seventh postoperative day, resulting in scar-like bands. These adhesive bands may surround the intestine and adhere them either together, or to the peritoneum of the interior abdominal wall. However, months to years later after the initial surgery, these constrictive bands may form a thickened fibrous web, which, when fully compact, are capable of inflicting severe pain or causing an intermittent-to-complete bowel obstruction. These two unfortunate scenarios will likely translate into higher medical costs related to emergency surgical procedures, lengthy hospital admissions, and prolonged recovery periods.

The other complication related to minimally invasive procedures is the port-site wound hernia, also referred to as an incisional or ventral hernia. The port-site wound hernia is defined as the abnormal protrusion of abdominal viscera through the wound's fascial defect. This type of hernia commonly develops in the first four years after the index surgery. At present, there is a problematic lack of long-term data on the incidence and natural history of port-site hernia development. Significant contributing factors for port-site wound herniation relate to the size and location of the fascial defect.

Obese patients, with a body mass index (BMI) of thirty or greater, are more susceptible to port-site wound herniation regardless of the fascial defect's size. This may be attributed to the obese patient's enlarged pre-peritoneal space and/or tendency toward elevated intra-abdominal pressures. Extensive manipulation and stretching of the instrument port during the MIS procedure (i.e. retrieval of specimens, multiple re-insertions, or aggressive use of laparoscopic instruments or devices) may enlarge the size of the fascial defect beyond the wound's initial diameter thus rendering the fascial defect vulnerable to port-site wound herniation.

With regards to location, herniation occurs more frequently when the fascial defect is located in the midline of the abdomen, especially in the upper midline area or at the umbilicus, possibly due to the absence of supporting musculature in these areas. In contrast, port-site wound hernias occur less often when they are located below the umbilicus or more laterally on the abdomen.

Another contributing factor for the development of a port-site wound hernia is known as the Chimney Effect. This describes a partial vacuum that is created as the surgical cannula is withdrawn from the wound, much like a piston. As this negative pressure increases within the narrow perimeter of the wound, it is capable of drawing abdominal viscera through the fascial defect and in the subcutaneous tissue or out of the body, thus creating the port-site wound hernia.

There are two technical risk factors for port-site wound hernia: the surgical trocar design used for creating the wound, and/or the suture used for closing the fascial defect. With regards to the former, the bladed trocar presents a greater risk for port-site wound hernia development than non-bladed trocars. Port-site wound herniation may also be related to the repair of the fascial defect with suture, as exemplified by suture fractures, slipping of suture knots, excessive suture tension, or sutures that absorb too rapidly. Suture closure of these wounds can be time consuming and difficult whether the suturing method is performed by the traditional approach (a needle attached to a suture and operated by a needle holder held in the operator's hand), or by a contemporary method using wound closure devices. The latter generally incorporates a needle or sharp tool with a suture affixed to one end in order to approximate and close the fascial defect.

Regardless of the method, the application involves the same time-consuming and cumbersome approach for employing a needle (or sharp tool) with a suture affixed to one end in order to approximate and close the fascial defect within the narrow recesses of the port-site wound. Moreover, these suture techniques have the predictable risk of injuring the underlying bowel, omentum, or other organs as the needle is swept through the fascial tissues.

In obese patients, these suturing methods can be painstakingly difficult, since the fascia is obscured from view by adipose tissue. If the fascial defect is too deep and/or is located at a steep angled trajectory in relation to its small skin incision, a blind attempt (e.g., with no direct vision) is the only option for closing the fascial defect. This risky suturing effort generally fails to capture a sufficient margin of the wound's edge.

With regards to the contemporary devices, they may share the same vexing difficulties as the traditional method. However, a specific drawback with these devices relates to their requirement for a pneumoperitoneum and direct visualization during their surgical application. This time-consuming requirement proves problematic, since all of these devices are unable to close the port operating the telescopic lens.

These technical challenges can compromise the wound's integrity, resulting in complications such as poor wound healing, suture failure, and port-site wound herniation, all of which will inadvertently negate the advantages of the MIS procedure. Ultimately, these complications will lead to increased pain and loss of productivity for the patient, while at the same time reducing efficiency with increased costs to the health care system in general.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Since the advent and proliferation of minimally invasive surgeries there has been a longstanding need for a rapid, safe and effective means of closing the strongest and most complete tissue layer of the port-site wound, specifically the anterior fascia of the abdominal wall. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to an apparatus and method for the optimal closure of minimally invasive port-site wounds that, in contrast to traditional and contemporary approaches for closing the fascial defect, include enhancements to prevent complications while facilitating wound healing.

By virtue of its unique one-piece design, the apparatus can function as its own insertion device, deployment tool, and highly sophisticated tissue engineered implant. Regenerative medicine may play a role in the development of the wound plug's bio-chemical properties by exhibiting characteristics that, when exposed to living tissues of the body, may not cause damage or adverse biological reactions (e.g., it may be biocompatible); may physiologically degrade and may be absorbed during a specific period of time (e.g., it may be bioabsorbable); and may be completely eliminated by the body's natural processes with no residual side effects (e.g., it may be bioresorbable). These essential characteristics may synergistically regenerate and heal the damaged tissues of the wound. The process can sustain the wound plug's durability and strength for the period of time deemed necessary for the wound plug to be absorbed by the body as the new tissues take its place. In this way, the apparatus can effectively, safely, and easily seal and close the fascial defect of the port-site wound.

The apparatus can be inserted and deployed within any size, depth or angle of port-site wound. Due to its highly versatile design, the apparatus can accurately locate the anterior abdominal fascia surrounding the fascial defect. The apparatus can ensure optimum application and deployment of its wound plug without necessitating the use of any surgical cannula, pneumoperitoneum, or telescopic lens to aid in its insertion, delivery, or deployment.

The apparatus can secure closure of the fascial defect by deployment of a unidirectional ratchet-rivet mechanism that engages the tissues of the fascial defect gently between two rivet heads. The apparatus can be deployed above, below, and within the anterior fascial defect, causing the defect to become gently sandwiched within the non-traumatic clamping force of the apparatus's wound plug. This three-dimensional approach for closing and sealing the defect echoes three basic tenets proposed in hernia mesh science. The first is the apparatus's suprafascial rivet head, which can secure the anterior fascial defect from above as an overlay. The second is the apparatus's subfascial rivet head, which can affix below the defect as an underlay. The third tenet can be achieved by the inlay position of the wound plug's shape memory column (stationed between the two rivet heads) that can fill and seal the void from within the fascial defect. The column can be compressible to fill any size wound and to keep body tissue from entering the wound. Further, it can fill in any gaps to prevent the other elements of the wound plug from shifting.

The tissues of the fascial defect may not be strictly fixed by the apparatus, which significantly reduces the detrimental effects of tissue ischemia (poor blood supply) or necrosis (tissue death) within the wound. The wound plug can spread over a wide surface area, beyond the circumference of the wound, to secure and promote tissue adherence and cellular growth. Another benefit of the wound plug's comprehensive overlay, underlay and inlay of the fascial defect and surrounding tissues is to prevent the plug from migrating or dislodging from its deployed position.

The straightforward and simple application of the apparatus may greatly reduce operating room expenditures in time, efficiency and labor; reduce risk of future adhesions and herniation; facilitate healing and regeneration of the tissues; reduce pain in the patient; and promote optimal patient outcomes with a rapid recovery rate. The apparatus may incorporate a wound plug that, by virtue of its varied chemical and biological composition, may be capable of providing structural and mechanical support for the ingrowth and regrowth of native tissues by interacting with the body's natural intra-cellular processes vital for wound healing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the various described embodiments, reference should be made to the Detailed Description below, in conjunction with the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the figures.

FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate the wound closure apparatus according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 2A-2N illustrate the wound plug according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate a post according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a rod according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a shield according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate the apparatus during stages of deployment of the wound plug according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a method for deploying a wound plug according to embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of examples, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which it is shown by way of illustration specific examples that can be practiced. It is to be understood that other examples can be used and structural changes can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosed examples.

Since the advent and proliferation of minimally invasive surgeries there has been a longstanding need for a rapid, safe and effective means of closing the strongest and most complete tissue layer of the port-site wound, specifically the anterior fascia of the abdominal wall. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to an apparatus and method for the optimal closure of minimally invasive port-site wounds that, in contrast to traditional and contemporary approaches for closing the fascial defect, include enhancements to prevent complications while facilitating wound healing.

By virtue of its unique one-piece design, the apparatus can function as its own insertion device, deployment tool, and highly sophisticated tissue engineered implant. Regenerative medicine may play a role in the development of the wound plug's biochemical properties by exhibiting characteristics that, when exposed to living tissues of the body, may not cause damage or adverse biological reactions (e.g., it may be biocompatible); may physiologically degrade and may be absorbed during a specific period of time (e.g., it may be bioabsorbable); and may be completely eliminated by the body's natural processes with no residual side effects (e.g., it may be bioresorbable). These essential characteristics may synergistically regenerate and heal the damaged tissues of the wound. The process can sustain the wound plug's durability and strength for the period of time deemed necessary for the wound plug to be absorbed by the body as the new tissues take its place. In this way, the apparatus can effectively, safely, and easily seal and close the fascial defect of the port-site wound.

The apparatus can be inserted and deployed within any size, depth or angle of port-site wound. Due to its highly versatile design, the apparatus can accurately locate the anterior abdominal fascia surrounding the fascial defect. The apparatus can ensure optimum application and deployment of its wound plug without necessitating the use of any surgical cannula, pneumoperitoneum, or telescopic lens to aid in its insertion, delivery, or deployment.

The apparatus can secure closure of the fascial defect by deployment of a unidirectional ratchet-rivet mechanism that engages the tissues of the fascial defect gently between two rivet heads. The apparatus can be deployed above, below, and within the anterior fascial defect, causing the defect to become gently sandwiched within the non-traumatic clamping force of the apparatus's wound plug. This three-dimensional approach for closing and sealing the defect echoes three basic tenets proposed in hernia mesh science. The first is the apparatus's suprafascial rivet head, which can secure the anterior fascial defect from above as an overlay. The second is the apparatus's subfascial rivet head, which can affix below the defect as an underlay. The third tenet can be achieved by the inlay position of the wound plug's shape memory column (stationed between the two rivet heads) that can fill and seal the void from within the fascial defect. The column can be compressible to fill any size wound and to keep body tissue from entering the wound. Further, it can fill in any gaps to prevent the other elements of the wound plug from shifting.

The tissues of the fascial defect may not be strictly fixed by the apparatus, which significantly reduces the detrimental effects of tissue ischemia (poor blood supply) or necrosis (tissue death) within the wound. The wound plug can spread over a wide surface area, beyond the circumference of the wound, to secure and promote tissue adherence and cellular growth. Another benefit of the wound plug's comprehensive overlay, underlay and inlay of the fascial defect and surrounding tissues is to prevent the plug from migrating or dislodging from its deployed position.

The straightforward and simple application of the apparatus may greatly reduce operating room expenditures in time, efficiency and labor; reduce risk of future adhesions and herniation; facilitate healing and regeneration of the tissues; reduce pain in the patient; and promote optimal patient outcomes with a rapid recovery rate. The apparatus may incorporate a wound plug that, by virtue of its varied chemical and biological composition, may be capable of providing structural and mechanical support for the ingrowth and regrowth of native tissues by interacting with the body's natural intra-cellular processes vital for wound healing.

Apparatus

FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate awound closure apparatus100 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The apparatus can be a self-contained device for delivery and deployment of a tissue engineeredwound plug200 that can secure fascial closure of laparoscopic port-site wounds. Thewound plug200 can include asubfascial rivet head202, asuprafascial rivet head204, and acompressible column206, wherein the compressible column surrounds and is coupled to each of the subfascial rivet head and the suprafascial rivet head.

The apparatus may include apost300, arod400, and ashield500 for delivery and deployment of thewound plug200. Thepost300 can include thesubfascial rivet head202 at a first end of the post and ahandle322 at a second end of the post. Therod400 can have arod cavity466 through which thepost300 is positioned. A first end of therod400 can be in contact with thesuprafascial rivet head204 of thewound plug200, and the rod can include aplate426 at a second end of the rod. Theshield500 can contain portions of thewound plug200, thepost300, and therod400 in ashield cavity530.

Once in the wound, these components can deploy the wound plug200 with thesubfascial rivet head202 below thefascia750 of the wound and thesuprafascial rivet head204 above the fascia of thewound748. As this occurs, thecolumn206 of the wound plug200 can be stationed within the opening of the wound. Once thewound plug200 is secured above, below, and within the fascial defect, the two components of the rivet heads202 and204 may be interlocked within aninner channel260 of thecolumn206. As a result, thewound plug200 may be implanted into the port-site wound's fascial defect, while thepost300, therod400, and theshield500 may be removed from the wound and safely discarded.

The apparatus's design, consisting of its own deployment device and implant, creates a mechanical symbiosis that precludes the need for any other additional accessories (e.g., other tools or instruments), or conditions of the wound (e.g., pneumoperitoneum, telescopic visualization, wound retraction, or increasing the length of the skin incision).

Wound Plug

FIGS. 1B and 2A-2N illustrate awound plug200 according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the wound plug includes asubfascial rivet head202, asuprafascial rivet head204, and acompressible column206. In some embodiments, thesubfascial rivet head202 includes asubfascial extension208 comprising a plurality ofstays210, and thesuprafascial rivet head204 includes asuprafascial extension212 including a plurality of stays214. In some embodiments, the wound plug200 further includes asubfascial biohybrid scaffold216 coupled to thesubfascial extension208 and asuprafascial biohybrid scaffold218 coupled to thesuprafascial extension212.

FIGS. 2A-2D illustrate subfascial and suprafascial rivet heads202 and204 according embodiments of the disclosure. The rivet heads202 and204 may be composed of natural polymers or copolymers like chitosan, gelatin, alginate, collagen and/or other wound healing promoters; as well as synthetic polymers or copolymers such as Polyglycolide (PGA), Polylactide (PLA), Polydioxanone (PDO), Polycaprolactone (PCL), or synthetic copolymers like L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA). The possibilities for such fabrication techniques may include but are not limited to polymeric blends, dip coating, adhesive layering, copolymerization, grafting, homogeneous mixtures, and/or electrospinning for creating a biosynthetic composite material.

This skeletal architecture can be manufactured from a polymeric composite for superior tissue engineering. A synthetic polymer or copolymer may be desirable because it demonstrates mechanical and physiochemical characteristics similar to those of the biological tissue it will temporarily replace. Additionally, synthetics can be tailored to control their microstructure and degradation rate. In contrast, however, natural polymers can have bioactivity-possessing growth factors and pertinent signals that may facilitate cellular adhesion, growth, and proliferation. Consequently, the strength of the former, and the bioactivity of the latter may mutually provide intrinsic benefits while diminishing each other's deficiencies.

The semi-rigid polymer composite of this skeletal architecture can be designed with microscopic perforations, which provide a gradient through which the native tissue cells may proliferate. As the device degrades within the body these perforations may be critical for tissue adherence and optimal cellular response and healing. Moreover, a natural polymer may be adhered as a layer upon the synthetic polymer construct.

Thesubfascial rivet head202 may be a part of thepost300 at a first end of the post, separated from the rest of the post by abreakaway point320. Thepost300 can be used to position thesubfascial rivet head202 below thefascia750 into the pre-peritoneal space, and the post can be broken at thebreakaway point320 to separate thesubfascial rivet head202 from the rest of the post after thewound plug200 is deployed in its entirety.

In some embodiments, thesubfascial rivet head202 may comprise an engaging ratchet configured to engage with a hollow receiving pawl of thesuprafascial rivet head204. For example, the engaging ratchet may include a number offlanges256 configured along its exterior that correspond to a number of reciprocalannular grooves258 within the interior of the receiving pawl. Once the rivet heads202 and204 are deployed, the subfascial and suprafascial portions of thewound plug200 become interlocked by deployment of the unidirectional mechanism.

In some embodiments, thesuprafascial rivet head204 may comprise a hollow receiving pawl configured to engage with an engaging ratchet of thesubfascial rivet head202. For example, the receiving pawl may include a number of reciprocalannular grooves258 configured within its interior that correspond to a number offlanges256 on the exterior of the engaging ratchet. Further, thesuprafascial rivet head204 may be configured with a channel to allow thepost300 to pass through its hollow core.

In some embodiments, engagement of the subfascial and the suprafascial rivet heads202 and204 may be confirmed by three audible clicks synchronized with three tactile sensations. These effects confirm that the reciprocalannular grooves258 of the receiving pawl have successfully interlocked with theflanges256 of the engaging ratchet.

In some embodiments,extensions208 and212 surround the outer perimeters of eachrivet head202 and204. For example,FIGS. 2E-2F illustrate eachextension208 and212 including a plurality ofstays210 and214. In some examples, the number of stays on each rivet head can be chosen relative to the size of eachrivet head extension208 and212, as well as to the weight and size of their associatedbiohybrid scaffold216 and218. The cross sectional profile of each stay may be tapered on oneside262 and non-tapered (e.g., flat) on the opposingside264. This profile can be consistent throughout the length of each stay, terminating into a blunt-point end.

The stays210 and214 may be fabricated using shape memory properties, allowing for two different configurations during the implant's surgical application. Prior to deployment, the stays may project at 90° angles from the outer perimeter of each rivet head, offset relative to each other at a 45° angle of arc. In this second configuration, the stays may be superiorly and inferiorly convergent as they enclose an outer wall of thecolumn206 in an alternating fashion. Further, each stay may include twodistinct surfaces262 and264. Within theapparatus100, a firstnon-tapered surface264 may be adjacent to the wall of thecolumn206, whereas a secondtapered surface262 may encircle an outer perimeter of thecolumn206 exteriorly.

Once the rivet heads202 and204 are deployed, however, the shape memory properties of thestays210 and214 can be immediately affected by the body's temperature and/or pH relative to a pre-determined time interval also inherent in their chemical properties. These physical and biological properties can cause each stay to automatically deploy its corresponding biohybrid scaffold (e.g.,biohybrid scaffolds216 and/or218) into a full radial expansion above and below the fascial defect, thus orienting the stays'non-tapered surfaces264 toward the abdominal fascia, while theirtapered surfaces262 are adjacent to the native tissues surrounding the port site wound (e.g.,native tissues768 inFIGS. 6C and 6D).

AlthoughFIG. 2E illustrates just thesubfascial extension208 including the plurality ofstays210, in some embodiments, thesubfascial extension208, the plurality ofstays210, thesubfascial rivet head202, and thepost300 are all formed of a single piece. Further, althoughFIG. 2E illustrates just thesuprafascial extension212 including the plurality ofstays214, in some embodiments, thesuprafascial extension212, the plurality ofstays214, and thesuprafascial rivet head204 are all formed of a single piece.

In some embodiments, the rivet heads202 and204 may include a disc shape as illustrated in the figures. In some embodiments, the rivet heads may alternatively include other shapes, such as rectangular, oval, hexagonal, octagonal, star, square, etc.

In some embodiments, the rivet heads202 and204 may be manufactured from the same shape memory blend of natural and synthetic polymers (or copolymers) as theextensions208 and212. In this way, the rivet heads can change to a smaller or more compact profile, such as a cone or ball.

In some embodiments, thestays210 and214 may be profiled to be tapered or non-tapered, thick or thin, wide or narrow, etc. In some embodiments, the stays may be profiled in such a way that their central convergence forms the receiving pawl and engaging ratchet. In this embodiment, the stays may be configured in linear geometric shapes (i.e., spokes on a bicycle wheel, or a lattice-like network), or as a mosaic of crisscrossing curves (i.e., lace-like or snowflake designs) for establishing the skeletal framework of the rivet heads202 and204, as well as therivet head extensions208 and212.

Although embodiments of the disclosure are described in terms of rivet heads comprising a receiving pawl and an engaging ratchet, embodiments are not so limited. Other embodiments are contemplated for attaching the suprafascial and subfascial portions of thewound plug200, such as superior and inferior clasps, mechanical fasteners, crimp engagements, mechanical latches, suture tie(s) with a type of slip knot(s), post or bead-like snaps, a tapering pin that engages within a narrowing hole, hook and eye attachments, a type of buckling apparatus, or even a chemical tissue adhesive disseminating from thecolumn206.

FIGS. 2G-2J illustratebiohybrid scaffolds216 and218 according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, thescaffolds216 and218 may comprise a collagen rich acellular non-crosslinked tissue sheet that is replete with vital components for wound healing, such as laminin, biometric proteins, carbohydrates, etc. When these multi-layered tissue sheets are applied to a wound site, a synergy between its scaffold and the native tissues can develop, causing specialized living cells to proliferate and regenerate new tissue into the wound site.

In some embodiments, thebiohybrid scaffolds216 and218 include two distinct surfaces. Afirst surface252, the lamina propria layer, may be conducive for tissue regeneration and healing. In contrast, thesecond surface254, the epithelial basement membrane, may be beneficial as a collagen rich tissue scaffold. The scaffolds may be deployed such that thefirst surface252 is in contact with the abdominal fascia around thefascial defect748 and750, while thesecond surface254 is in contact with surrounding native tissues of the wound (e.g.,native tissues768 inFIGS. 6C and 6D).

In some embodiments, thebiohybrid scaffolds216 and218 may cover and embed only the flatter, larger surfaces of the rivet heads202 and204 and both sides of each of thestays210 and214 with the exception of the stays' distal blunt ends. Thescaffolds216 and218 may include centralized openings to allow portions of the rivet heads202 and204 and the vertical axis of thepost300 to pass through the centers of the scaffolds.

In some embodiments, an electrospun layer may be applied between the tissue surfaces of eachbiohybrid scaffold216 and218 directly contacting the shape memory components of thestays210 and214. This may further promote cohesiveness between the two layers for strength and manageability.

Prior todeployment biohybrid scaffolds216 and218 can conform to the same constricted configuration presented by the embedded stays210 and214. In this deformed profile, the lamina proprialayer252 can be adjacent to the wall of thecolumn206, while theepithelial basement membrane254 can encircle the column exteriorly. In this pre-deployment profile, the scaffold tissue sheets may appear as multiple vertical pleats, in the likeness of a pleated paper coffee filter, although pleats may be more rounded or larger in nature.

Once the rivet heads202 and204 are deployed, the bio-reactivity of the surroundingstays210 and214 can simultaneously spread itscorresponding biohybrid scaffold216 and218 into full radial expansion. As a result, the lamina proprialayer252 that encases the inner (fascial) surfaces of the rivet heads and stays (e.g., the non-tapered surfaces264) may be juxtaposed to one another as they cover the subfascial andsuprafascial surfaces750 and748 surrounding thewound744. Further, theepithelial basement membrane254 covering the exterior sides of the rivet heads and thetapered surfaces262 of the stays can buttress the surrounding native tissues (e.g.,native tissues768 inFIGS. 6C and 6D). Consequently, following deployment each rivet head's outer diameter may be large enough to thoroughly cover both sides of the defect.

In some embodiments, the scaffolds may be produced with other types of biological or synthetic (absorbable or nonabsorbable) scaffolding materials.

In some embodiments, the skeletal framework of the rivet heads and the stays may not be included, and instead the shape memory biohybrid scaffolds of each rivet head may be resilient enough to deform into a pre-deployment configuration without the necessity of any supportive skeletal framework.

In the absence of the skeletal framework, it may be beneficial for a tissue adhesive to be dispersed from thecolumn206 to cause the two biohybrid scaffolds to adhere locally to the wound. If a tissue adhesive is used for securing the wound plug to the wound, there may be no need for a mechanical fixation apparatus such as an engaging ratchet or a receiving pawl. As a result, this alternative suggests only a simple open-ended central opening within thesuprafascial rivet head204. Likewise, thepost300 may be a plain shaft (without an engaging ratchet or a breakaway point320). The distal end of the post may need to be tenuously anchored to the electrospun network within the twolayers252 and254 of thesubfascial biohybrid scaffold216 covering thesubfascial rivet head202. After deployment, and the local tissue adhesive from thecolumn206 is dispersed, the terminal end of the post may be twisted, torqued, pulled, or snapped from its temporary electrospun attachments within the subfascial biohybrid scaffold of the subfascial rivet head.

In some embodiments, thebiohybrid scaffold216 and218 may be uniform, and may have wide or narrow shapes that may include oval, rectangular, star-like or flower-petal projections, etc. In some embodiments, the subfascial and suprafascial biohybrid scaffolds may be profiled in two entirely different geometric shapes and widths. Further, each scaffold may be fabricated from identical biological or chemical properties to that of other elements of thewound plug200.

FIGS. 2K-2N illustrate acompressible column206 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Thecolumn206 may be a highly porous shape-memory structure, in the form of a sponge or foam, which provides a large surface area to promote cellular ingrowth, uniform cellular distribution, and neovascularization. The column may be centered between the two rivet heads202 and204. Prior to deployment, the receiving pawl and the engaging ratchet may be recessed within aninner channel260 of the column. In some embodiments, the column may further include an electrospun network between the terminal borders of the column and thefascial surfaces252 of thebiohybrid scaffold216 and218 to achieve an integrated fusion between these structures, thus uniting them together as a single unit. As a result, the column's inferior section may be deployed in unison with thesubfascial rivet head202, while the superior portion of the column may be deployed with thesuprafascial rivet head204. After deployment, the column's initial tube-like profile may be positioned within the border of the wound.

The wall of thecolumn206 may be constructed with multiple compact circumferential pleats, such that the column compresses in an accordion-like fashion as the subfascial and suprafascial portions of the wound plug become interlocked. Accordingly, the length of the column compresses while maintaining its outer diameter so as to not interfere with the interlocking of the rivet heads.

In some embodiments, once the pleats are mechanically compressed, the body's temperature and/or pH can affect shape memory properties of thecolumn206, causing the column to automatically expand and pervade the interior of the wound in a washer-like profile with an outer diameter that does not fill the central defect. This smaller diameter of the column's washer-like profile can allow for the porous network to absorb blood and body fluids, increasing in size to swell and pervade the wound like a seal. The final configuration of the column, therefore, may fill the central defect like a low-pressure seal or plug without exerting pressure on the bordering tissues of the wound. As a result of this seal, theinner channel260 of the column may become completely obliterated, thus resulting in an adherence between the column and the engaged components of the rivet heads202 and204. The benefit of this adherence is that dead space and vacuums are averted within the interior of thewound plug200, thereby encouraging tissue regeneration.

In some embodiments, the size, distribution, volume, shape, and roughness of pores within thecolumn206 may have a powerful influence on cellular penetration and growth. Further, the pores may be interconnected in order to facilitate the essential transfer of oxygen, nutrients, and other physiochemical elements and biological exchanges to and from the living cells.

In some embodiments, the porous structure of thecolumn206 may be saturated with either a bioactive cellular matrix powder or a biocompatible hydrogel. Saturating the column with one or more of these materials can promote a synergistic interplay between it and the surrounding native tissues of the port-site wound. Additionally, the column's porous construction can incorporate pharmaceutical enhancements into its design, such as tissue adhesives, stem cell recruitment adjuncts, regenerative biochemical factors, insulin growth factor, anesthetic or antibiotic time-released drugs, etc.

In some embodiments, theinner channel260 of thecolumn206 surrounding thepost300 and portions of the rivet heads202 and204 may be filled with a tissue-healing hydrogel or liquefied state of the same. Following deployment, the locally applied tissue adhesive may be dispersed from the column to function as a chemical securing mechanism for sealing the wound plug to the wound. In some embodiments, thecolumn206 itself may be made of the hydrogel with an outer wall made of denser gelatinous material (or skin) which encases the more viscous and/or liquefied form.

In some embodiments, thecolumn206 may include a finely shredded or spider web-like form of the bioactive acellular tissue matrix and/or liquefied form of the same. In some embodiments, the column may be fabricated from any number of materials including a sponge, foam, hydrogel, acellular pig bladder xenograft, any other type of xenografts, synthetic-absorbable scaffolding material, or any combination of these options. In some embodiments, the column may occur as a hollow chamber (i.e., a small bladder) formed by either a xenograft or other type of tissue engineered material that may contain pharmaceutical and bioactive substances, hydrogel, and/or the possibility of a tissue adhesive within its interior.

In some embodiments, thecolumn206 may be formed by stacking multiple centrally-perforated washers, one on top of the other, around thepost300 and the mechanical securing mechanisms of the rivet heads202 and204.

In some embodiments, the pleats of thecolumn206 may be arranged in vertical columns, or curving these vertical columns into a spiraling, candy cane-like design. By arranging the folds or pleats in these configurations, the column may compress like a collapsed spring. Moreover, it may be advantageous to cut these vertical or horizontal lines rather than utilizing pleats and/or folds within the wall of the column. Additionally, a combination of cuts and/or pleats or folds may contribute to a more successful compression for the column during deployment.

Delivery and Deployment Apparatus

Thepost300, therod400, and theshield500 form anapparatus100 for delivery and deployment of thewound plug200. These three components may reside at different radial levels in the apparatus. Thepost300 may be located in the core of the apparatus and may be the longest of the three components, with itshandle322 rising higher than the other two components. Therod400 surrounds portions of thepost300 and includes aplate426 at one end (e.g., approximately midway between thehandle322 of thepost300 and grips538 of the shield500). Theshield500 surrounds portions of therod400 and thepost300 in itsshield cavity530. The shield includes animplant chamber532 that contains portions of thewound plug200 before deployment. Each of the post, the rod, and the shield may include an alignment pin hole through which analignment pin600 may be placed to align the various components with respect to each other. Thealignment pin600 may be removed prior to deployment, as described below.

In some embodiments, each of thepost300, therod400, and theshield500 may be made of synthetic polymers without the essential blends of polymer composites comprising thewound plug200. As a result, the overall rigid construction of these elements (e.g., the elements that will not be implanted within the body) may be fabricated from non-critical, bio-safe materials. Once the post, the rod, and the shield are separated from the wound plug and removed from the wound, their byproducts may be safely discarded as environmentally friendly, non-toxic wastes.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate apost300 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The post may be a vertical and most internal axis by which all the components of theapparatus100 may be collectively aligned and integrated for deployment. In this unique position, the post may traverse proximally throughout a series of internal conduits of the column206 (e.g., theinner channel260 of the column), thesuprafascial rivet head204, the rod400 (e.g., theinner channel466 of the rod), and the shield500 (e.g., the shield cavity530). The alignment of these cannulated components can create a common passageway through which portions of thepost300 can move.

Thepost300 may be an injected molded structure comprised of several diverse profiles along its vertical construct, including a subfascial rivet head202 (e.g., the engaging ratchet) at a first end, and ahandle322 at a second end. The post may further include abreakaway point320 between the subfascial rivet head and the handle. The breakaway point distinguishes the portion of the post included in the wound plug (i.e., the subfascial rivet head) from the rest of the post. In some embodiments, thebreakaway point320 may be configured to provide vertical stability and strength, thereby resisting compression or elongation during insertion and deployment. However, following the application of minimal twisting torque to thehandle322, thepost300 can break at the breakaway point.

In some embodiments, thepost300 retains a cruciate profile until it transitions into theinferior flanges256 and distal base of the engaging ratchet. Although thesubfascial rivet head202 is illustrated as having threeflanges256, embodiments are not so limited and can have any number of flanges. Thehandle322 may be knurled to facilitate gripping and cylindrical to prevent its descent into therod400. In some embodiments, thepost300 further includes analignment pin hole324.

In some embodiments, thehandle322 may be profiled in different shapes which include, but are not limited to, a round, flat plate or disc, T-handle, thumb plate, ball, bulb, laterally contoured projections, finger-ring holes, diamond, ribbed finger grip, a rod-like handle, etc. In some embodiments, the shaft of thepost300 may be formed in other non-cruciate shapes, such as geometric shapes like a triangle or diamond, or a simple round or oval profile. Moreover, one or more of the four cruciate crossarms may be added to or removed from the cruciate profile, thus allowing for a variety of shapes which include, but are not limited to, one crossarm projection, two crossarms similar to a dumb-bell shape, three crossarms like a rounded three-leaf clover or a pointed triangular shape, a diamond shape, or multiple rounded or pointed projections as seen in various flower or star-like profiles.

In some embodiments, thebreakaway point320 may be designed to sever either by a snap release, by pulling and/or twisting, or by other physical means, instead of the application of torque discussed above. Additionally, since many of the apparatus's components respond to the body's pH and/or temperature, the breakaway point's chemical properties may be engineered to release within a specific period of time, shortly after deploying thewound plug200 within the wound.

FIG. 4 illustrates arod400 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Therod400 can include aplate426 at a second end of the rod, and a first end of the rod can be in contact with the suprafascial rivet head204 (e.g., the receiving pawl). Prior to deployment, theplate426 may be positioned midway between thehandle322 of thepost300 and thegrips538 of theshield500. The rod may further include analignment pin hole428. Aninner channel466 of the rod can match a cruciate profile of thepost300, allowing for the vertical movement of the post and the rod without twisting during deployment of each associated rivet head (subfascial rivet head202 deployed by thepost300, andsuprafascial rivet head204 deployed by the rod400). Further, the cruciate profile can facilitate fixation of thepost300 above itsbreakaway point320, permitting the application of torque to sever the post at the breakaway point.

In some embodiments, the combination of theplate426 of therod400 and thegrips538 of theshield500 can allow for a syringe-like hold to deploy thesuprafascial rivet head204 and the superior section of thecolumn206, as described below. In some embodiments, theinner channel466 of therod400 has a non-cruciate shape to match a corresponding non-cruciate shape of thepost300. In some embodiments, thesuprafascial rivet head204 can be a part of therod400, separated from theplate426 by a breakaway point that functions similarly to thebreakaway point320 of thepost300. The breakaway point of the rod can align with the breakaway point of the post after deployment such that a single twisting motion can sever both.

Although the figures illustrate a single shape for theplate426, variations in shapes, thicknesses, sizes, etc. are contemplated by this disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate ashield500 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theshield500 can include ashield cavity530 and animplant chamber532 that houses portions of thewound plug200 prior to deployment. In some embodiments, the shield further includesgrips538 to allow a user to hold the device like a syringe with a comfortable grip for the deployment of thesuprafascial rivet head204 and thecolumn206. Theimplant chamber532 may be profiled in an inverted cup-like configuration. A rim of the implant chamber may be wider than the wound in the fascia, such that theshield500 can rest on the fascia without entering thewound744, and so that the contact between the fascia and the rim provides physical feedback to the user indicating that the wound plug is correctly positioned with respect to the depth of the fascia beneath the skin, allowing for use of the apparatus without internal or external direct vision of thewound744. Further, the rim of the implant chamber may include aninsertion lip534 to facilitate easy insertion of the apparatus beneath a narrow skin incision.

In some embodiments, theshield500 may further include analignment pin hole536. The linear arrangement of the three alignment pin holes in thepost300, therod400, and theshield500 can create a common opening for insertion of analignment pin600 to keep the components in place until ready for deployment, as illustrated inFIG. 5C. The alignment pin may be removed once the rim of theimplant chamber532 is centered over the wound in the fascia.

In some embodiments, theinsertion lip534 of theimplant chamber532 may project in shapes including a quarter or half circle, a quarter or half oval, a more pointed design, an encircling band or brim, a ring, or a ridge. One or more additional insertion lips may also be included on the rim of theimplant chamber532.

In some embodiments, a CO₂sensor or pressure gauge may be devised along the rim and/or lip of theimplant chamber532, which can register a visual cue in a window constructed within the wall of theshield500.

In some embodiments, concentric grooves appearing as screw-like threads or spiral-like grooves may be profiled to the exterior wall of theshield500. The purpose of these grooves may be to promote an easier insertion of the device within the subcutaneous tunnel of the wound. However, it may be determined that vertically aligned grooves, in contrast to the horizontal grooves, like the screw or spiral-like profiles, may effect easier insertion of the apparatus into the wound.

In some embodiments, some or all of theshield500 may be profiled in numerous shapes, sizes, thicknesses, etc. For example, thegrips538 may be profiled in any geometric shape for designing the laterally oriented projections or rings, and any number of grips are contemplated.

Method of Deployment

FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate theapparatus100 during stages of deployment of thewound plug200, andFIG. 7 is a block diagram of a method for deploying a wound plug according to embodiments of the disclosure.

Theshield500 may be inserted (10) into askin opening742 in theskin740. The shield'simplant chamber532 may be slightly larger than theskin opening742, so holding the apparatus at a 45° angle may allow the apparatus to slip easily beneath the skin incision without extension of the wound or the need for skin retraction.

The shield may be positioned (20) such that the rim of theimplant chamber532 is in contact with asuprafascial surface748 offascia746 surrounding awound744 in the fascia, as illustrated inFIGS. 6A-6B. In some embodiments, the rim of the implant chamber may be wider than the wound in the fascia, such that the shield can rest on thefascia746 without entering thewound744, and allowing for use of the apparatus without internal or external direct vision of the wound in the fascia. Further, the contact between the fascia and the rim may provide physical feedback to the user that the wound plug is correctly positioned with respect to the depth of thefascia746 beneath theskin740.

In some embodiments, thealignment pin600 may be removed from the alignment pin holes324,428, and536 of thepost300, therod400, and theshield500, respectively.

Thepost300 may be moved (30) towards the wound744 (e.g., by gripping and moving thehandle322 of the post) such that asubfascial extension208 coupled to the subfascial rivet head202 (e.g., engaging ratchet) at the first end of the post passes through the wound. Thesubfascial rivet head202, thesubfascial biohybrid scaffold216, and an inferior portion of thecolumn206 may thereby pass into thenative tissues768 of the pre-peritoneal space.

After thesubfascial extension208 passes through thewound744, thepost300 may be moved (40) such that the subfascial extension is in contact with asubfascial surface750 around the wound744 (e.g., by gripping and pulling thehandle322 of the post until resistance is felt when the subfascial extension comes into contact with the subfascial surface). Thesubfascial biohybrid scaffold216 and corresponding subfascial plurality ofstays210 of the subfascial extension may be fully radially expanded at this point below the fascial defect within the pre-peritoneal space. Further, the inferior portion of thecolumn206 containing a portion of thesubfascial rivet head202 may positioned within the wound.

Therod400 may be moved (50) toward the wound744 (e.g., by holding thehandle322 of thepost300 in a stationary position with one hand, and with the opposite hand pushing together in a syringe-like manner thegrips538 of theshield500 and theplate426 of the rod). As a result of this motion, the receivingpawl204 may be pushed by the rod towards the engagingratchet202, the engaging ratchet may interlock within the receiving pawl, thecompressible column206 may be compressed within the wound, and a suprafascial extension212 (e.g., including a plurality of stays214) coupled to the receiving pawl may be in contact with asuprafascial surface748 around thewound744, as illustrated inFIG. 6C. The interlocking of the receiving pawl and the engaging ratchet within theinner channel260 of thecolumn206 may cause the mechanical compression of the column within thewound744, as illustrated inFIG. 6D. Further, thesuprafascial biohybrid scaffold218 and corresponding suprafascial plurality ofstays214 of the suprafascial extension may be fully radially expanded at this point. As a further result of this motion, portions of thewound plug200 may be driven out of theimplant chamber532, and the implant chamber may be lifted off thesuprafascial surface748 to allow for unrestricted clearance of thesuprafascial rivet head204 and thecolumn206 into thewound744. Further, three consecutive clicks may be heard and felt by a user to indicate that the wound plug is fully deployed.

In some embodiments, thepost300 may be twisted to break the post at thebreakaway point320 such that the engaging ratchet is separated from the post, as illustrated inFIG. 6D. In some embodiments, both an outer profile of the post and an inner profile of the rod cavity have a cruciate shape, such that post is prevented from rotating within the rod cavity (e.g., to facilitate the application of torque to a breakaway point of the post when the rod is twisted).

In some embodiments, any or all components of the apparatus may be assembled within any disposable or non-disposable surgical gun or applier, and these may be designed with automatic reloads of the wound plug, either within the apparatus or applied separately to it, for sequential and repetitive deployment.

In some embodiments, thewound plug200 may afford stabilization and/or healing of any type of penetrating wound caused by traumatically impaling the fascia anywhere on the body. The wound plug may appropriately address various types of hernias within the abdominal wall. The wound plug's postoperative antimicrobial benefits may be feasible for the primary closure of fistulated tracks or other types of reoccurring infected wounds. The wound plug's antimicrobial and anesthetic advantages, as well as its ability for completely healing these chronic wounds, may eliminate lengthy secondary or tertiary healing attempts, which often succumb to re-infection and reoccurrence. By application of theapparatus100, thewound plug200 may be considered possible for closing the abdominal fascial defect of a stoma (i.e., colostomy) following surgical re-anastomosis of the bowel. The wound plug may close any fascial defect following the removal of any large drainage tube, surgical tube, or port that is at high risk for herniation or poor wound healing, in general.

In some embodiments, thewound plug200 may be made to address any length or shape of fascial incision anywhere on the body, with or without the incorporation of sutures for reinforcement. For example, the wound plug may be in a more rectangular and linear profile, thus allowing for its repetitive and sequential application along the fascial incision line. Fascial incisions may include, but are not limited to, any region of the abdomen (i.e., midline or transverse laparotomy incisions), any location on the extremities (i.e., incisions for repairing fractured bones or joint replacement arthroplasties), posterior or flank regions of the torso (i.e., spinal or kidney incisions), or fascial planes covering the anterior, lateral, or posterior areas of the chest wall (i.e., video assisted open thoracostomy port-site wounds or thoracostomy incisions).

In some embodiments, theapparatus100 may be designed to incorporate a fiber optic cable with an optical lens to allow for direct visualization of the subcutaneous tunnel and anterior abdominal fascia during its insertion and deployment within the wound. Although embodiments of the disclosure are described without requirement of a pneumoperitoneum, intra-abdominal telescopic lens, or any other instrumentation, the apparatus may be used in conjunction with such devices.

In some embodiments, theapparatus100 may further include one or more elements to enhance light (or visual), auditory, or palpatory sensations when the rim of theshield500 reaches the wound in thefascia746 and/or as confirmation of accurate completion of other various steps during deployment. For example, a rim orlip534 of theshield500 may further include a touch-sensitive surface (mechanical, capacitive, and/or resistive, among other possibilities) to confirm that the rim has reached the wound in the fascia. Further, an audible sound may confirm the subfascial rivet head's placement below the fascia, and a light sensor may confirm engagement of the suprafascial and subfascial rivet heads (or any combination of sensor feedback).

In some embodiments, theapparatus100 may further include a button-type retaining pin (either spring or manually designed) which, by virtue of its configuration, could function to lock and unlock thepost300. Once this retaining pin is pushed in to become flush with an external wall of theshield500, a grooved configuration would release only thepost300, allowing its downward movement for deploying thesubfascial rivet head202.

In this embodiment, thealignment pin600 can interlock theactuator rod400 and shield500 together prior to their deployment. After a user pushes the button of the retaining pin forward (toward the shield500), thepost300 is released and may slide down as previously described. When the user pulls thepost300 upward in order to palpate thesubfascial tissue750, the retaining pin of the post may be pulled back toward the operator, out of its hole, until it engages the post in its locked configuration. Following the aforementioned activity of the post's retaining pin, thealignment pin600 can be pulled out to release therod400 and theshield500 for their deployment of thesuprafascial rivet head204. Naturally, with regards to this alternative, the profiles of therod400 and shield500 would need to incorporate some sort of detent/horizontal slots or grooves to allow for their deployment activities over and alongside the presence of this stationary retaining pin. Such a configuration may allow for a more controlled and sequential release of the elements incorporated within theapparatus100, freeing the user from needing to hold thepost300 stationary during the activation of therod400 andshield500.

Although the disclosed examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the disclosed examples as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:

1. A method for deploying a wound plug, the method comprising:

inserting a shield into a skin opening, wherein the shield contains portions of a wound plug, a post, and a rod in a cavity of the shield, the wound plug is positioned in an implant chamber of the cavity of the shield that is wider than an adjacent portion of the cavity of the shield, and the wound plug includes an engaging ratchet, a receiving pawl, and a compressible column, the compressible column located between the engaging ratchet and the receiving pawl;

positioning the shield such that a rim of the implant chamber is in contact with a suprafascial surface of fascia surrounding a wound in the fascia;

moving the post towards the wound such that a subfascial extension coupled to the engaging ratchet at a first end of the post passes through the wound;

after the subfascial extension passes through the wound, moving the post such that the subfascial extension is in contact with a subfascial surface around the wound; and

moving the rod towards the wound such that:

the receiving pawl is pushed by the rod towards the engaging ratchet,

the engaging ratchet engages within the receiving pawl,

the compressible column is compressed within the wound, and

a suprafascial extension coupled to the receiving pawl is in contact with a suprafascial surface around the wound.

2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein both an outer profile of the post and an inner profile of a cavity of the rod have a cruciate shape, such that post is prevented from rotating within the cavity of the rod.

3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the post further includes a breakaway point between the engaging ratchet at the first end of the post and a handle at a second end of the post, the method further comprising:

separating the post from the engaging ratchet at the breakaway point.

4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein each of the post, the rod, and the shield includes an alignment pin hole, the method further comprising:

prior to moving the post towards the wound such that the subfascial extension passes through the wound, removing an alignment pin from the alignment pin hole.

5. The method ofclaim 4, wherein removing the alignment pin from the alignment pin hole releases the rod and the shield.

6. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the rim of the implant chambers includes an insertion lip, the method further comprising:

locating an anterior fasicia proximate to the wound; and

preventing the insertion lip from contacting the wound.

7. The method ofclaim 1, wherein portions of each of the subfascial extension and the suprafascial extension have a first configuration in the cavity of the shield and change to a second configuration in response to an increase in temperature or a change in pH.

8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein each of the subfascial extension and the suprafascial extension includes a plurality of stays, wherein changing to a second configuration includes:

radially extending the plurality of stays around an axis of the post; and

radially offsetting the plurality of stays of the subfascial extension relative to the plurality of stays of the suprafascial extension.

9. The method ofclaim 8, wherein an electrospun layer is included between the subfascial and suprafascial extensions, the method further comprises:

connecting the subfascial and suprafacial extensions to the plurality of stays using the electrospun layer.

10. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the wound plug further comprises a subfascial biohybrid scaffold coupled to the subfascial extension, a suprafascial biohybrid scaffold coupled to the suprafascial extension, and an electrospun layer, the method further comprising:

contacting the subfascial biohybrid scaffold and the suprafascial biohybrid scaffold to the respective plurality of stays using the electrospun layer.

11. The method ofclaim 1, wherein an inner profile of the cavity of the rod has a cruciate shape, and the post further includes a breakaway point between the engaging ratchet at the first end of the post and a handle at a second end of the post, the method further comprising:

creating a counter-resistance between the post and the breakaway point.

12. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the compressible column includes a plurality of pores or a plurality of pleats, the method further comprising:

absorbing one or more fluids using the plurality of pores and pleats.

13. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the compressible column includes a plurality of pores or a plurality of pleats, the method further comprising:

dispersing a material from the compressible column.

14. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising:

creating audible clicks and tactile sensations when annular grooves of the receiving prawl interlock with flanges of the engaging ratchet.

15. A method for deploying a wound plug, the method comprising:

inserting a shield into a skin opening, wherein the shield contains portions of a wound plug, a post, and a rod in a cavity of the shield, the wound plug is positioned in an implant chamber of the cavity of the shield that is wider than an adjacent portion of the cavity of the shield, and the wound plug includes a subfascial rivet head, a suprafascial rivet head, and a compressible column, the compressible column located between the subfascial rivet head and the suprafascial rivet head;

positioning the shield such that a rim of the implant chamber is in contact with a suprafascial surface of fascia surrounding a wound in the fascia;

moving the post towards the wound such that a subfascial extension coupled to the subfascial rivet head at a first end of the post passes through the wound;

after the subfascial extension passes through the wound, moving the post such that the subfascial extension is in contact with a subfascial surface around the wound; and

moving the rod towards the wound such that:

the suprafascial rivet head is pushed by the rod towards the subfascial rivet head,

the subfascial rivet head engages within the suprafascial rivet head,

the compressible column is compressed within the wound, and

a suprafascial extension coupled to the suprafascial rivet head is in contact with a suprafascial surface around the wound.

16. The method ofclaim 15, wherein engaging the subfascial rivet head within the suprafascial rivet head includes engaging annual groves of the subfascial rivet head with annual grooves of the suprafascial rivet head, the method further comprising:

interlocking subfascial and suprafascial portions of the wound plug; and

deploying the wound plug.

17. The method ofclaim 16, wherein deploying the wound plug includes:

deploying the subfascial rivet concurrently with deploying of an interior portion the wound plug; and

deploying the suprafascial rivet head concurrently with deploying a superior portion of the wound plug.

18. The method ofclaim 15, further comprising:

dispersing a material from the compressible column.

19. The method ofclaim 18, further comprising:

temporarily anchoring the first end of the post to an electrospun network within layers of a subfascial biohybrid scaffold; and

separating the post.

20. The method ofclaim 15, further comprising:

creating an audible sound when the subfascial rivet head is located below the fascia surrounding the wound.

Images